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Heart-healthy foods found to be significantly better in lowering cholesterol levels than a low fat diet!

Many studies have been conducted on the causes and prevention of heart disease. Boston University Framingham Heart Study continues to assess cardiovascular risk factors over three generations since 1948.

Recent studies show that a diet rich in proven heart-healthy foods is better (by 28-35%) than a low saturated fat diet for reducing LDL-cholesterol in patients with hyperlipidemia (high blood cholesterol).

Further studies are needed to determine the diet’s effectiveness in the real-world, compared to the low saturated fat diet and in combination with drug therapy; whether blood vessels and cardiovascular health appear better on scans and whether there are less cardiovascular events.

Cholesterol, considered the main cause of heart attacks and strokes is also necessary for vital hormones and vitamin D synthesis. Bad and oxidised cholesterol and plaque are the problem.

Good versus Bad Cholesterol

Good High Density Lipoproteins (HDL) transport cholesterol out of the artery. Bad Low Density Lipoproteins (LDL) transport it into the artery wall. To help increase HDL / lower LDL:

aerobic (cardio-vascular) exercise, lose excess weight

moderate alcohol intake, non smoking

eat soluble fibre, omega3 fish or flax oils

avoid trans fats in processed biscuits, crisps and junk non-food

Plaque (similarly on teeth) sticks to arteries blocking blood flow, pushing up blood pressure triggering heart attacks and strokes. Plaque is a problem not just the cholesterol in it.

Hawthorne (crataegus) used as a heart restorative by Romans and Greeks since 1st Century to strengthen the heart muscle and increase blood flow without increasing pressure

Perhaps the wise choice is to consider the low/good fat and the heart-healthy food diet, natural support and eat a rainbow diet as mother nature intended. Of course, take your doctor’s advice on drugs when needed.

We are happy to advise you on your health matters. To learn about the full range of services offered by Aether Bios Clinic take a look at our website.